Every business that wants to maintain a modern edge needs to update its computers. Some businesses wait until the old systems are falling apart, while others seem to grab a new computer as soon as it hits the market--with or without planning. Eventually, companies with lots of workstations will need to get rid of their old systems when storage simply isn't an option. Before throwing everything out, take the time to understand how important recycling is to the business process and how you can benefit from an efficient recycling plan with your refresh.  

The Concept Of Computer Refresh Projects

The term refresh for computer replacements refers to an efficient removal of old systems and the installation of new systems. It usually takes place after business hours or during off-peak hours, and involves a dedicated team of technicians (often entry level as a chance for safe experience) checking off removal and replacement tasks. The cables are often left in place and the new computers are installed at the same workstation for a particular employee.

It's possible to grab a few spare parts during the refresh. If the refresh project is staggered by room, department or other limited groups, technicians can dedicate a bin to removing old parts that may be useful to the newer computers.

Memory, hard drive, power supplies and other components that are compatible with the new computers can come in handy when something breaks, or may even be an additive upgrade if the computers are near the same speed. If your business is upgrading every year or so, it's likely that your upgrade isn't too far ahead of last year's model for all of the parts.

This is the first part of recycling, and can be taken care of in-house. Instead of throwing out perfectly good, working computers, you're at least putting precious materials to good use. For the computers and components that are no longer useful, a recycling center is the destination.

Recycling Benefits And Efficient Planning

Why bother recycling at all? There are some savings to be seen by reusing old equipment and it's a good idea to have repair parts on hand, but if your business isn't into the recycling culture, what's the points? Well, you have something to gain by participating and something to lose by ignoring recycling.

Businesses are being noticed for their improper disposal practices and can suffer hefty fines for not recycling electronic waste (e-waste). Although recycling can be costly if you need to hire someone to transport everything to a recycling center, your business needs to look into rates for recycling certain components.

Aluminum, steel and copper are found inside the computer systems, as well as valuable rare earth magnets inside the hard drives. During the removal process, ask recycling processionals about recycling pay rate difference between recycling the whole computer or individual parts.

To make the removal easier, send technicians straight to the recycling transport. A recycling and disposal company can send you the container for a roll off dumpster or a dumpster driver on standby, allowing technicians to walk into a sanitized container before the container is loaded onto the truck instead of causing physical strain by having to throw computers over the top or into the side opening of a dumpster.

Roll off containers are a quick way to bring a drop-off zone near the building's exit to reduce fatigue and strain as your technicians load up old computers. Contact a recycling and disposal professional to strengthen your refresh and recycling plan.

Share